Time for another episode of The Freshness, an exclusive 730 mixtape/podcast featuring the music we’re feeling. The criteria for making this is having a joint that’s rockable in the car and/or on a 10 mile run. Remember, no payola, no favors, just freshness.

It’s official. Fashawn, one of the Left Coast’s most consistent, has inked a deal to Mass Appeal Records, a label affiliated with the mag of the same name and overseen by the one and only Nasty Nas. Fashawn joins Boldy James and Bishop Nehru as the first three signees. Here’s the official release:

West coast rapper Fashawn has officially inked a deal with Nas’ newly launched Mass Appeal imprint. Fashawn is now working on his long-awaited sophomore album, The Ecology, set to release on September 30.

Fashawn first gained major attention in 2009 for the release of his debut album Boy Meets World. This early success led him to be inaugurated into the 2010 XXL Freshmen cover, standing alongside Wiz Khalifa, J.Cole, Big Sean and more. His buzz has gotten increasingly stronger, from sharing the stage with notable stars such as Kendrick Lamar, Talib Kweli, Wiz Khalifa to performing at jam-packed shows like Rock the Bells and Paid Dues. He also performed the entrance theme song for boxing welterweight champion Timothy Bradley when he fought his rematch against Manny Pacquiao on Pay Per View last April.

Fashawn’s distinctive talent captured the attention of Nas, who brought him out during a sold-out showcase at SXSW earlier this year. “Fashawn is one of the most underrated in the game,” said Nas. “The world is gonna know soon. We’re excited to have him as a part of the family.”

The Ecology will be Fashawn’s first release under the Mass Appeal imprint. This album will not only showcase his raw lyricism but also introduce his versatility. The Ecology will feature a handful of collaborations including Nas, Aloe Blacc and many more.

“I took the time to really work on this project because I knew it would be important not just for my career, but for hip-hop,” said Fashawn. “I can’t wait to finally share my new project, especially through a label that gets my vision.”